Creamy Butter Chicken With Rice

If you’re craving a dish that’s rich, comforting, and packed with flavor, Creamy Butter Chicken With Rice is your answer. This recipe takes tender, juicy chicken thighs and simmers them in a luscious, spiced coconut milk and cream sauce, delivering every bite with velvety goodness. Paired with fluffy basmati rice, it’s an all-in-one meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or even special occasions. The warm spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala create an authentic depth of flavor without overwhelming the dish. Plus, it’s straightforward to prepare, even if you’re new to Indian-inspired cooking.

What Sets This Recipe Apart

What makes this version of Creamy Butter Chicken With Rice stand out is the use of coconut milk blended with heavy cream, which adds a subtle sweetness and a silky texture that’s a little different from the traditional tomato-based sauces. The combination of spices is thoughtfully balanced to bring warmth and complexity without being too fiery, making it approachable for all palates.

Using boneless, skinless chicken thighs ensures the meat stays juicy and tender after cooking, perfectly soaking up the sauce’s flavors. Cooking the rice separately with just water keeps it light and fluffy, serving as the ideal base to scoop up every bit of that creamy sauce. And don’t forget the fresh cilantro garnish for a pop of color and freshness!

What Goes In

• 1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon coriander
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup basmati rice
• 2 cups water
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Cook’s Kit

• Large skillet or sauté pan – for cooking the chicken and sauce
• Medium pot with lid – to cook the basmati rice perfectly
• Sharp knife and cutting board – to prep the chicken and vegetables
• Measuring spoons and cups – for precise ingredient amounts
• Wooden spoon or spatula – for stirring and combining ingredients
• Grater – to grate fresh ginger

Build Creamy Butter Chicken With Rice Step by Step

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Start by cutting the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. Finely chop the onion, mince the garlic, and grate the ginger. Measure out the spices so everything is ready to go once you start cooking.

Step 2: Cook the Rice

Rinse 1 cup of basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming sticky. In a medium pot, combine the rinsed rice with 2 cups of water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a low simmer and cover with a lid. Cook for about 15 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender. Remove from heat and let it sit covered while you prepare the chicken.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent and soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 4: Add the Spices

Sprinkle in the cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala. Stir well to coat the onions and garlic with the spices and toast them lightly. This step is crucial for developing deep flavors, so don’t rush it!

Step 5: Cook the Chicken

Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and stir to combine with the spiced aromatics. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is no longer pink on the outside.

Step 6: Simmer in Coconut Milk and Cream

Pour in the can of coconut milk and the cup of heavy cream. Stir to combine everything evenly. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it cook uncovered for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the chicken is cooked through.

Step 7: Season and Garnish

Taste the sauce and season with salt and pepper as needed. Finish by sprinkling fresh cilantro on top for a bright, herbaceous contrast.

Step 8: Serve

Spoon the creamy butter chicken over the warm basmati rice and dive in! The rice will soak up the luscious sauce, making each bite incredibly satisfying.

How to Make It Lighter

• Swap heavy cream for evaporated milk or a lighter cream alternative to reduce fat content.
• Use light coconut milk instead of full-fat for a lower-calorie sauce.
• Use skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs for leaner protein.
• Serve with cauliflower rice instead of basmati rice to cut down on carbs.

Pitfalls & How to Prevent Them

• Overcooked Chicken: Cooking chicken thighs too long can make them tough. Keep the simmer gentle and check for doneness early.
• Sauce Too Thin: If your sauce doesn’t thicken, simmer it uncovered for longer, or mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with water and stir it in.
• Rice Clumping: Rinse basmati rice thoroughly before cooking to avoid sticky, clumpy rice.
• Burning Spices: Add spices after the onions are softened, and stir frequently to prevent burning.

Prep Ahead & Store

You can chop the onions, garlic, and ginger a day in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The chicken can also be cut and kept ready to go. The cooked Creamy Butter Chicken With Rice stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much. For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken and sauce separately from the rice for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Common Questions

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used if you prefer leaner meat. Just be careful not to overcook them, as they tend to dry out faster than thighs. Adjust cooking time accordingly.

How spicy is this dish?

This recipe is mild to medium in spice level, focusing more on aromatic warmth than heat. You can easily add chili powder or fresh chilies if you want a spicier version.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Definitely! For a slow cooker version, brown the chicken and sauté the aromatics first, then add everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours. For a quicker slow cooker alternative, try the Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala recipe, which has a similar flavor profile.

What can I serve with this dish besides rice?

This creamy butter chicken pairs well with naan bread, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad. For a twist, try serving it alongside the Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Rice to explore different flavor combinations.

More Recipes You’ll Love

• Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Rice – A cheesy, garlicky chicken and rice dish that’s perfect for weeknights.
• Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala – A hands-off recipe with rich tomato and spice flavors.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Butter Chicken With Rice is a true crowd-pleaser that brings together comforting textures and vibrant spices in a dish that’s both indulgent and easy to make. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this recipe is a guaranteed hit. The creamy coconut and heavy cream sauce makes it feel special, but the straightforward method keeps it accessible. Plus, with simple swaps and prep tips, you can easily customize it to your liking. So grab your skillet, fire up the stove, and get ready to enjoy one of the most satisfying meals you’ll make this season.

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